Realism

1840s-1880s

Realism sought to depict subjects truthfully, without artificiality, focusing on ordinary people and everyday scenes rather than idealized or romanticized subjects.

Historical Context

Realism emerged in France after the 1848 Revolution, as artists rejected Romanticism and academic art. They sought to depict contemporary life truthfully, often focusing on working-class subjects and social issues.

Key Characteristics

• •Accurate depiction of contemporary life
• •Focus on ordinary people and working class
• •Rejection of idealization and romanticism
• •Emphasis on social issues and everyday scenes
• •Naturalistic representation

Notable Realism Artists

Daumier, Honoré

1810–1879

Homer, Winslow

1836–1910

Millet, Jean-François

1814–1875

Eakins, Thomas

1844–1916

Courbet, Gustave

1819–1877